Congratulations

CLASS OF 2024

AUSTIN — A sea of purple took over Shoreline Church in Austin May 24 as proud parents and staff members congratulated the graduating classes of Elgin High School and Phoenix High School.

Amidst the tears of joy and decorated square caps, speeches recognized the substantial accomplishments of these young students and the opportunities to come following this pivotal chapter of their lives.

“Everyone talks about how

“I believe it is important to acknowledge and reflect on the Elgin experience, because it made us all so much stronger.”

— Katerina Puente, class salutatorian life gets harder after high school. What people tend to overlook is that while it can get harder, it can also bring you a lot of joy,” said EHS Principal Jason Rodman. “I know each of you has the potential to be great. Yes, you will have to work for it. Graduating from high school is not the finish line, it is a fork in the road, one that you have been preparing for. So, as you move past this fork, into the next stages of your life, choose wisely. Continue to work hard to achieve your hopes and dreams but remember to take time to find and protect your happiness.”

Every Elgin Independent School District representative and student that took to the podium made sure to thank the incredible teachers and faculty members that helped push the class of 2024 to this moment.

Class salutatorian, Katerina Puente, took the time to state that while Elgin ISD may not be perfect, it certainly is responsible for creating steadfast individuals.

“The Elgin experience includes a specific environment created in our small town, and the unique mindset you gain while attending school in Elgin. This experience I would describe as honestly not a good one,” Puente said, recounting times at tennis matches when other schools would look down on them. “Despite how we may be perceived, we are so much more than what people think of us. The Elgin experience shapes the decisions we make, the way we view our peers. I believe it is important to acknowledge and reflect on the Elgin experience, because it made us all so much stronger.”

The air filled with cheers, horns and cowbells as names were called and diplomas were handed out. Smiles stretched across faces when caps took to the skies.